Islamabad:
The Department of Libraries Islamabad, in collaboration with the Sukhan Foundation, on Saturday hosted a prominent book launch and poetry symposium at Islamabad Public Library to celebrate the release of the acclaimed poet Aqeel Abbas’ latest collection, bore Qaab.
The ceremony began with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an of Muhammad Hammad, followed by a heartfelt Naat of Ishrat Naseem. The event was led by the acclaimed poet, fiction writer and scholar, Dr. Waheed Ahmed. Senior literary figures, including Rehman Hafeez, Syed Shamsheer Hyder and Khizar Saleem Khokhar, adorned the apartment as a guest of honor.
In his remarks, literary critic Waqas Aziz praised Qaab as a significant contribution to modern Urdu Ghazal, while Usman Halim emphasized his mythological undertones. The young critic Hasan Jameel of Wah Cantt described Aqeel Abbas as “a poet of fresh traditions”, while senior poet Rehman Hafeez recognized his significant influence on contemporary literature.
In his presidential address, Dr. WAHEED AHMED AQEEL ABBAS ‘unique allicative style and acclaimed bar Qaab as a refreshing and valuable addition to the modern Ghazal scene.
The Second Session, Moderated by Poet and Broadcaster Muhammad Ali Niaz, Featured Recitations By A Range of Prominal Poets, Including Tahir Khan, Saad Majeed, Hasan Ibn Saqi, Fakhar Kafayat, Bismil Hashmi, Aamir Qureshi, Aamir Dhaddi Rajput, Hina Qureshi, Ittifaq Butt, Waqas Aziz, Hasan Jameel, Syed Shamsheer Hyder, Rehman Hafeez, Khizar Saleem Khokhar, Aqeel Abbas, Dr. Saleem Akhtar and Dr. Waheed Ahmed.
The Director -General of Libraries, Sheikh Muhammad Arshad, expressed his gratitude to poets and participants and described the evening as an inspiring literary party. “Such events will continue in the future, and my staff and I are still obliged to promote literature and culture,” he noted.
The program ended with hot applause and marked a memorable and historical celebration of poetry and literary heritage.
